This hands-on course is designed for students with limited experience in graphic design who are eager to explore how visuals communicate ideas. Students will be introduced to the foundations of graphic design through creative, project-based learning using Adobe Illustrator as their primary tool.

They will learn to draw with vector lines and explore core design concepts such as color theory, typography, hierarchy, and composition. Through guided exercises, research, and analysis, students will begin to understand how design choices influence meaning and audience response. Projects focus on developing both technical proficiency and creative problem-solving, allowing students to build confidence and produce original digital artwork.

By the end of the course, students will have a foundational understanding of visual communication and have a developed portfolio project that demonstrates their growing design skills.

While this elective can be taken on its own, is is designed to pair perfectly with the core Summer@Cornish morning Art & Design Intensive program.

We encourage students to enroll the morning intensive to build a strong foundation, then expand their skills and interests through these afternoon electives.

Explore the morning Art & Design Intensive [here], or email plus@cornish.edu with any questions.

How the Summer@Cornish Program Works

Design your own schedule: full days, morning Intensive only or afternoon Electives only!

Three Ways to Participate

• Full-Day Program

• Half-Day Program

• Single Elective

Full-Day Program

• Morning Intensive: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–12 PM

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• Afternoon Electives: Monday/Wednesday/Friday) & Tuesday/Thursday, 1 PM–4 PM

Half-Day Program

Students can select a combination of: 

• Only morning Intensive

• Only two afternoon Electives

Residency Program (Optional Add-On)

Available to Full-Day students:

• Evening & weekend activities

• Extra studio time

• On-campus supervision and housing

[Learn more here →]